Changes in resting-state directed connectivity in cortico-subcortical networks correlate with cognitive function in Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by prominent motor symptoms, as well as a wide range of non-motor disturbances in early disease stages, among which cognitive dysfunction (Chaudhuri et al., 2006; Dickson et al., 2009). Over time, dementia develops in up to 75% of PD patients (Aarsland and Kurz. 2010), contributing significantly to an impaired quality of life and putting a heavy burden on caregivers (Aarsland et al., 1999; Schrag et al., 2006). The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying cognitive decline and conversion to PD dementia (PDD) are not well understood.

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